The Fears and Manias of Adolf Hitler: Surprising Revelations

Hitler had a notable fear of dentists, which severely impacted his oral health throughout his life. He avoided dental appointments and, when he finally decided to go, he was extremely anxious. His dentist, Dr. Hugo Blaschke, described Hitler as a patient who “feared” the dentist’s chair, to the point of requiring that a root canal be performed in several sessions, prolonging his pain.

Hitler’s dental health was poor, with numerous untreated cavities and a history of serious issues like gingivitis and bad breath. In 1944, he needed ten fillings, and his oral condition deteriorated due to his reluctance to seek regular treatment. This phobia not only affected his health but also reflected a weakness in a man who saw himself as invincible.

Interest in Hypnosis: The Therapy that Changed Destiny

During World War I, Hitler was a victim of a mustard gas attack that left him temporarily blind. He was treated by a doctor who used hypnosis as part of the treatment. Although the effectiveness of hypnosis is debated, reports indicate that this treatment played a crucial role in restoring his vision.

This episode reveals Hitler’s vulnerability and his interest in unconventional healing practices that were popular at the time. Hypnosis, in particular, was seen as a way to access the subconscious mind and treat trauma, something Hitler may have found intriguing in his debilitated state.

Aversion to Swimming: Hidden Fears

Another interesting aspect of Hitler’s life was his aversion to swimming. He avoided entering bodies of water and was never seen swimming in public. The exact reasons for this aversion remain unclear, but speculations suggest he might have had an irrational fear of water or simply disliked the activity.

This aversion can be seen as a metaphor for his controlling personality and his reluctance to expose himself to situations beyond his control. In a world where he sought to dominate everything around him, swimming represented a vulnerability he preferred to avoid.

Cinema Fanatic: A Passion for Films

Hitler was a movie lover, amassing a vast collection of films. He was particularly fond of Charlie Chaplin, admiring “The Great Dictator,” a satire that ridiculed his own figure. This taste for films reflects the duality of his personality: a man who, on one hand, sought to control the narrative of his era, but on the other, allowed himself to be entertained.

Cinema was a powerful tool for Hitler, who recognized its potential to shape public opinion and spread Nazi ideology. He used films as propaganda but also allowed himself moments of escape, watching American westerns and other genres that fascinated him during his time at the Berghof, his retreat in the Alps.

Developer of Alternative Products: Creativity in Times of Shortage

During World War II, Hitler encouraged the development of alternative products in response to resource shortages. A notable example is “pea coffee,” a substitute for coffee made from roasted peas, which became popular among soldiers and civilians.

This effort to create substitutes reflects not only the need for adaptation in wartime but also Hitler’s mindset in seeking creative solutions to logistical problems. He also supported the production of synthetic rubber and other products, showing a pragmatic side that contrasted with his image as a tyrant.